I love getting afternoon tea from this place and it's convenient to the Art Institute and Millenium Park. They give you SO much food and the teas are great. I liked the fruit teas, they were pink and purple. They change them around a bit, so I'm always excited to try new teas. They give you sugar cubes for the tea too.
Elena Sorokovaia
Absolutely wonderful! Feels like fine dining, the atmosphere, the interior design, the service. Missed my home cuisine so much that I had to visit this place. And was not disappointed! Their Chicken Kiev was sooo juicy, the beet crepe dish tasted amazing as well! The pirozhki and napoleon cake were superb! Very friendly and pleasant waitress!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Mini Potato Piroshkies, Soup, Chicken Kiev, Napoleon Bonaparte
Cloud
The staff were so nice and everything was really good. The Earl grey lavender tea was really good!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Regular Tea Service
Raymond Siegel
A little on the noisy side but the food, service, and the atmosphere more than make up for it. Caviar service was fantastic!
Nestled in the heart of the downtown chicago. The Russian Tea House is a delightful oasis where tradition meets culinary excellence. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a bygone era of elegance and refinement, with its ornate decor and soothing ambiance setting the stage for a truly memorable dining experience.The star of the show at the Russian Tea House is undoubtedly the lamb, which is nothing short of spectacular. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, each bite is a testament to the chef's skill and dedication to quality. Whether it's served as part of a traditional Russian dish or in one of their bite-size sandwiches, the lamb at this establishment is sure to leave a lasting impression on even the most discerning palate.Speaking of sandwiches, the bite-size offerings at the Russian Tea House are a true delight. Perfectly portioned and exquisitely crafted, each sandwich is a miniature work of art that combines the finest ingredients with impeccable technique. From classic combinations like cucumber and dill to more adventurous pairings featuring the star ingredient – lamb, every bite is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.But the excellence of the Russian Tea House doesn't stop there. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is nothing short of perfect. Whether you're a seasoned tea connoisseur or a newcomer to Russian cuisine, the staff is always on hand to offer recommendations and guidance, making you feel welcome and valued from the moment you walk through the door.In conclusion, if you're looking for a dining experience that combines culinary excellence with old-world charm, look no further than the Russian Tea House. With its spectacular lamb dishes, delectable bite-size sandwiches, and impeccable service, it's the perfect destination for food lovers and tea enthusiasts alike.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Irina Dalca
Absolutely exquisite. You need to book in advance, but trust me, it's worth it. I had a braised lamb shank with carrots, red peppers, celery, tomatoes and garlic, with mashed potatoes on the side. From what I understand, the borscht is authentic and delicious (I went with a Russian and a Ukrainian who should know a thing or two about this food). 100% recommended to complete your visit to the center of this lovely city.
Julia H
Absolutely loved it. We came for a dinner on Friday night and the place quickly filled up. We got Russian Tea Time Platter for two and everything was delicious. Right amount of food too. Highly recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rayna Allinger
Hidden gem across the street from the art museum. If you go plan for high tea attire and pricing. Excellent for special occasions and snacking. Phenomenal
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Megan O
Absolutely wonderful, not just for a meal but for having an EXPERIENCE. Servers were efficient, friendly, and helpful. The space is small but bright and cheerful. I had a vodka flight with some house-infused vodkas and all three flavors were incredible (if you can only choose one I recommend the horseradish; if you don't like horseradish the beet was also incredible, sweet and earthy.)For entree I had the quail (just one) and everything about it was well seasoned and delicious, perfect portions, smoky and savory and sweet. Really well done.I went by myself this time, and would love to come back for tea service with a group, other people were enjoying that and it looked wonderful. I will say that the vibe was a bit...imposing? Austere? An ambiance that made me worry about my table manners! Recommend dressing nicely and being prepared for an upscale vibe for sure.Please do yourself a favor and eat here at least once while you're in Chicago, even if all you do is stop in for a shot of their amazing vodka. The horseradish vodka was so unique and good, I bought a small bottle to bring to my husband back home. Well worth it and I can't wait to come back again!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Vodka Flight
Spencer Morgan
Very impressed with the staff, quality of food, and the sheer joy of being here. From the tea pots featuring fantastic tea options from all over to the vodka flights and main course meals, this was an incredible dining experience. One of the best meals I’ve had in Chicago, I will definitely be returning.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Russian Tea Time Platter for 2, Roasted Duck Breast with Duck Strudel, Mini Potato Piroshkies, Lamb Shank, Medovik Honey Cake, Stuffed Cabbage, Vodka Flight, Chicken Kiev, Regular Tea Service
Recommended dishes: Russian Tea Time Platter for Two
P H
Great place to experience classic tea. Would recommend doing prior reservations and also to note they serve tea till 5pm after that they serve dinner menu. We had classic tea experience which was good scones were super fresh. Its good portion which can be shared amongst 2 people. Would recommend this place it really has great classic and cozy vibe
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
jamie
For the second time in as many years, I’ve gone out of my way to have lunch and tea at Russian tea time. I’m so glad I did.It’s the most authentic Russian experience I’ve ever had in my life. The food is ridiculous. You’ve likely never heard of a single thing on this menu, and that’s ok. Order anything.The tea is remarkable. Extremely flavorful- just go with the house blend as I did. It’s unlimited refills which is terrific, and it’s the perfect amount of strong and delicious.I also can’t forget to mention the servers. So, these aren’t American stand ins, pretending to make it up on the spot as they go. No. This is a Russian work force. They are the real deal. Speaking in Russian to each other, they are authentic and honest about what they’re doing. They’re kind, open, and responsive and they’re always ready to take care of your every need.Whenever I’m in Chicago, I’ll go out of my way to make sure I stop in to have some Russian tea time.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
C Dwyer
Absolutely incredible!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Catherine Baranko
We have been going to the Russian Tea Time since they opened in 1993! The newish owners have done a wonderful job updating the restaurant while also keeping it the same. We still enjoy our trips to the Russian Tea Time for excellent Eastern European food and a lovely dining experience!
I love getting afternoon tea from this place and it's convenient to the Art Institute and Millenium Park. They give you SO much food and the teas are great. I liked the fruit teas, they were pink and purple. They change them around a bit, so I'm always excited to try new teas. They give you sugar cubes for the tea too.
Absolutely wonderful! Feels like fine dining, the atmosphere, the interior design, the service. Missed my home cuisine so much that I had to visit this place. And was not disappointed! Their Chicken Kiev was sooo juicy, the beet crepe dish tasted amazing as well! The pirozhki and napoleon cake were superb! Very friendly and pleasant waitress!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Mini Potato Piroshkies, Soup, Chicken Kiev, Napoleon Bonaparte
The staff were so nice and everything was really good. The Earl grey lavender tea was really good!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Regular Tea Service
A little on the noisy side but the food, service, and the atmosphere more than make up for it. Caviar service was fantastic!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Classic Beef Stroganoff, Lamb Shank
Nestled in the heart of the downtown chicago. The Russian Tea House is a delightful oasis where tradition meets culinary excellence. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a bygone era of elegance and refinement, with its ornate decor and soothing ambiance setting the stage for a truly memorable dining experience.The star of the show at the Russian Tea House is undoubtedly the lamb, which is nothing short of spectacular. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, each bite is a testament to the chef's skill and dedication to quality. Whether it's served as part of a traditional Russian dish or in one of their bite-size sandwiches, the lamb at this establishment is sure to leave a lasting impression on even the most discerning palate.Speaking of sandwiches, the bite-size offerings at the Russian Tea House are a true delight. Perfectly portioned and exquisitely crafted, each sandwich is a miniature work of art that combines the finest ingredients with impeccable technique. From classic combinations like cucumber and dill to more adventurous pairings featuring the star ingredient – lamb, every bite is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.But the excellence of the Russian Tea House doesn't stop there. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is nothing short of perfect. Whether you're a seasoned tea connoisseur or a newcomer to Russian cuisine, the staff is always on hand to offer recommendations and guidance, making you feel welcome and valued from the moment you walk through the door.In conclusion, if you're looking for a dining experience that combines culinary excellence with old-world charm, look no further than the Russian Tea House. With its spectacular lamb dishes, delectable bite-size sandwiches, and impeccable service, it's the perfect destination for food lovers and tea enthusiasts alike.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely exquisite. You need to book in advance, but trust me, it's worth it. I had a braised lamb shank with carrots, red peppers, celery, tomatoes and garlic, with mashed potatoes on the side. From what I understand, the borscht is authentic and delicious (I went with a Russian and a Ukrainian who should know a thing or two about this food). 100% recommended to complete your visit to the center of this lovely city.
Absolutely loved it. We came for a dinner on Friday night and the place quickly filled up. We got Russian Tea Time Platter for two and everything was delicious. Right amount of food too. Highly recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Hidden gem across the street from the art museum. If you go plan for high tea attire and pricing. Excellent for special occasions and snacking. Phenomenal
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely wonderful, not just for a meal but for having an EXPERIENCE. Servers were efficient, friendly, and helpful. The space is small but bright and cheerful. I had a vodka flight with some house-infused vodkas and all three flavors were incredible (if you can only choose one I recommend the horseradish; if you don't like horseradish the beet was also incredible, sweet and earthy.)For entree I had the quail (just one) and everything about it was well seasoned and delicious, perfect portions, smoky and savory and sweet. Really well done.I went by myself this time, and would love to come back for tea service with a group, other people were enjoying that and it looked wonderful. I will say that the vibe was a bit...imposing? Austere? An ambiance that made me worry about my table manners! Recommend dressing nicely and being prepared for an upscale vibe for sure.Please do yourself a favor and eat here at least once while you're in Chicago, even if all you do is stop in for a shot of their amazing vodka. The horseradish vodka was so unique and good, I bought a small bottle to bring to my husband back home. Well worth it and I can't wait to come back again!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Vodka Flight
Very impressed with the staff, quality of food, and the sheer joy of being here. From the tea pots featuring fantastic tea options from all over to the vodka flights and main course meals, this was an incredible dining experience. One of the best meals I’ve had in Chicago, I will definitely be returning.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Russian Tea Time Platter for 2, Roasted Duck Breast with Duck Strudel, Mini Potato Piroshkies, Lamb Shank, Medovik Honey Cake, Stuffed Cabbage, Vodka Flight, Chicken Kiev, Regular Tea Service
Restaurantji Recommends
So cool. Authentic and good prices.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Russian Tea Time Platter for Two
Great place to experience classic tea. Would recommend doing prior reservations and also to note they serve tea till 5pm after that they serve dinner menu. We had classic tea experience which was good scones were super fresh. Its good portion which can be shared amongst 2 people. Would recommend this place it really has great classic and cozy vibe
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
For the second time in as many years, I’ve gone out of my way to have lunch and tea at Russian tea time. I’m so glad I did.It’s the most authentic Russian experience I’ve ever had in my life. The food is ridiculous. You’ve likely never heard of a single thing on this menu, and that’s ok. Order anything.The tea is remarkable. Extremely flavorful- just go with the house blend as I did. It’s unlimited refills which is terrific, and it’s the perfect amount of strong and delicious.I also can’t forget to mention the servers. So, these aren’t American stand ins, pretending to make it up on the spot as they go. No. This is a Russian work force. They are the real deal. Speaking in Russian to each other, they are authentic and honest about what they’re doing. They’re kind, open, and responsive and they’re always ready to take care of your every need.Whenever I’m in Chicago, I’ll go out of my way to make sure I stop in to have some Russian tea time.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely incredible!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We have been going to the Russian Tea Time since they opened in 1993! The newish owners have done a wonderful job updating the restaurant while also keeping it the same. We still enjoy our trips to the Russian Tea Time for excellent Eastern European food and a lovely dining experience!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Croquettes Pozharskie Kotleti, Moulard Duck Leg, Salmon Crepes with Caviar, Soup, Medovik Honey Cake, Vodka Flight, Chicken Kiev